Poverty Bay Blues & Brews: Where Community, Music, and Service Come Together

When the sound of soulful blues mingles with the clink of pint glasses at Des Moines Beach Park, you know it’s time for one of the most anticipated traditions of the year: the Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival.

Now in its 16th year, this annual gathering is far more than a summer celebration of music and craft beer—it’s a testament to what happens when a community comes together for a greater purpose. Organized entirely by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Des Moines and Normandy Park, the festival has become both a cultural cornerstone and a powerful fundraising engine for local causes.

Watch video here!

A Legacy of Service

The Rotary Club’s roots in the Des Moines/Normandy Park area run deep, dating back to 1958. For decades, these “People of Action” have rolled up their sleeves to tackle some of the community’s most pressing concerns—from ensuring families don’t go hungry through ongoing support of the Des Moines Area Food Bank, to placing musical instruments in the hands of children who dream of playing in a school band but lack the resources.

Each ticket purchased for Blues & Brews helps power these efforts. In fact, 100% of the net proceeds raised from the festival are reinvested directly into programs that uplift and inspire. Whether it’s scholarships for local students or supporting Highline Music4Life, which provides instruments to youth, every pour and every note adds up to a stronger community.

Economic & Cultural Impact

The Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival draws between 800 and 1,200 attendees annually, many of whom travel from outside the city. They dine in local restaurants, shop in Des Moines’ small businesses, and discover the natural beauty of Des Moines Beach Park, which continues to grow in reputation as one of the region’s premier venues. This ripple effect benefits both local entrepreneurs and the city as a whole, showcasing Des Moines as a vibrant destination for visitors and potential future events.

A Partnership for the Future

In 2025, the Rotary Club is seeking to deepen its partnership with the City of Des Moines. The proposal includes a $10,000 in-kind contribution for the use of the park, with the city in turn receiving prominent sponsorship recognition, opportunities for leaders to connect directly with residents at the festival, and a $2,000 annual contribution toward Parks and Recreation youth scholarships.

This partnership is more than an exchange of resources—it’s a shared commitment to economic vitality, cultural enrichment, and the next generation of leaders.

🎶 Meet the 2025 Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Fest Lineup! 🎶

Get your tickets now at DrinkToMusic.org and don’t miss a single set:

🎤 Hank Shreve Band | 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Kicking off the day is the Hank Shreve Band, known for their powerhouse blend of classic blues and soulful originals. Frontman Hank Shreve is a true multi-instrumentalist—harmonica, keyboards, lap steel, guitar, drums—you name it, he plays it. With a stage presence honed from festivals around the world, and multiple regional music awards under his belt, Hank brings high-energy blues that set the tone for the whole festival.

🎤 Alison Joy Williams | 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Next up is Alison Joy Williams, an international touring artist whose commanding vocals and heartfelt songwriting have carried her across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Whether she’s performing in an intimate club or in front of thousands at a festival, Alison’s voice has a way of drawing listeners in and making every word land deep. Expect a set that blends soul, blues, and Americana with raw emotion and irresistible style.

🎤 Joel Astley Band | 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm

The afternoon heats up with the Joel Astley Band, one of the fastest-rising acts in the international blues scene. A gifted harmonica player, singer, and songwriter, Joel’s debut album Seattle to Greaseland landed on the Billboard Blues Top 10, earning critical acclaim worldwide. Backed by a loyal Northwest following and more than 20 “Best of the Blues” awards from the Washington Blues Society, Joel’s performance promises passion, groove, and a whole lot of soul.

🎤 Hillstomp | 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Closing out the night is none other than Hillstomp—a Northwest favorite known for their raucous, foot-stomping take on American roots music. Mixing Mississippi trance blues with Appalachian grit and a punk edge, their sound is raw, inventive, and unforgettable. With makeshift percussion, wailing slide guitar, and unfiltered energy, Hillstomp transforms every show into a revival. This is one of your final chances to see them live before they retire—don’t miss it!

🍺 Plus, enjoy dozens of the Northwest’s top craft brews and ciders—perfectly paired with summer sunshine and great company

An Invitation to Act

As festival day approaches, the excitement builds not just for the music and brews, but for the chance to be part of something bigger. If you’re a community leader—or simply someone who wants to make a difference—consider this your invitation. The Rotary Club of Des Moines and Normandy Park is always ready to welcome new members who want to exchange ideas, take action, and transform lives.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now at DrinkToMusic.org.

Blues, brews, sunshine, and community—what better way to spend a summer Saturday?

So raise a glass at the 2025 Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival. Celebrate the music, savor the flavors, and know that with every note and every pour, you’re helping to strengthen the fabric of our community.